What are the best ways to gain Lae'zel's approval in Baldur's Gate 3?

Gaining Lae'zel's approval in Baldur's Gate 3 requires understanding her personality, values, and the mechanics of the approval system. Lae'zel is a Githyanki warrior, and her personality is shaped by her culture, which values strength, discipline, and a no-nonsense approach to problem-solving. She respects decisiveness, combat prowess, and a focus on the mission at hand. To gain her approval, you need to align your actions and dialogue choices with these traits.

The approval system in Baldur's Gate 3 is based on how your decisions and actions resonate with each companion. When you make choices that a companion agrees with, their approval of you increases. Conversely, if you make choices they dislike, their approval decreases. Lae'zel, in particular, appreciates directness, pragmatism, and a willingness to prioritize the mission over personal feelings. She dislikes indecision, unnecessary kindness, and anything she perceives as weakness.

To gain Lae'zel's approval, start by being decisive in your dialogue choices. When presented with options, choose those that reflect a strong, no-nonsense attitude. For example, in the early stages of the game, when you encounter the Tieflings who have captured Lae'zel, siding with her and demanding her release will earn her approval. Similarly, when dealing with the Githyanki patrol later in the game, showing respect for their authority and following their commands will please her.

Combat is another area where you can gain Lae'zel's approval. She respects strength and tactical prowess, so performing well in battles and making smart combat decisions will earn her favor. For instance, using her effectively in combat, such as positioning her to take down key enemies or using her abilities to their fullest potential, will show her that you value her skills. Additionally, choosing aggressive or pragmatic solutions to conflicts, such as attacking enemies outright rather than negotiating, will align with her values.

Lae'zel also approves of actions that prioritize the mission to remove the tadpole from your head. When given the choice, focus on finding a cure and avoid getting sidetracked by side quests or personal matters. For example, when discussing the tadpole with other characters, choose dialogue options that emphasize the urgency of finding a solution. This shows Lae'zel that you share her priorities and are committed to the mission.

There are specific moments in the game where your choices can significantly impact Lae'zel's approval. One such moment is during the encounter with the Githyanki patrol. If you handle the situation diplomatically and show respect for their authority, Lae'zel will approve. However, if you provoke them or act disrespectfully, she will disapprove. Another key moment is during the confrontation with the Dream Visitor. If you express skepticism or defiance towards the Dream Visitor, Lae'zel will approve, as she values independence and distrusts outside influences.

It's important to avoid actions that Lae'zel perceives as weak or indecisive. For example, showing excessive kindness or mercy to enemies, or prioritizing personal relationships over the mission, will likely result in her disapproval. Additionally, avoid making choices that undermine her authority or question her judgment, as she values respect and loyalty from her allies.

Advanced techniques for gaining Lae'zel's approval include leveraging her personal questline. As you progress through the game, you will encounter opportunities to learn more about her background and help her achieve her goals. Engaging with her questline and supporting her in these moments will significantly boost her approval. For example, helping her find a Githyanki creche and supporting her in interactions with other Githyanki will earn her favor.

In terms of related D&D rules and mechanics, Lae'zel's personality and values are rooted in the lore of the Githyanki, a race of warrior nomads from the Astral Plane. Understanding this background can help you make choices that align with her worldview. Additionally, the approval system in Baldur's Gate 3 is influenced by the alignment system in D&D, where characters have moral and ethical tendencies that guide their reactions to your actions. Lae'zel's alignment leans towards Lawful Neutral, meaning she values order and discipline but is not strictly bound by good or evil.

Specific examples of gaining Lae'zel's approval include siding with her during the confrontation with Shadowheart over the artifact, supporting her in her interactions with the Githyanki patrol, and choosing aggressive or pragmatic solutions to conflicts. For instance, when dealing with the goblins in the Goblin Camp, choosing to attack rather than negotiate will earn her approval. Similarly, when faced with moral dilemmas, opting for the most direct and mission-focused solution will align with her values.

In summary, gaining Lae'zel's approval in Baldur's Gate 3 requires a combination of decisive dialogue choices, effective combat tactics, and a focus on the mission to remove the tadpole. By understanding her personality and values, and making choices that align with them, you can build a strong relationship with her and earn her loyalty. Avoid actions that she perceives as weak or indecisive, and engage with her personal questline to further strengthen your bond. With these strategies, you can successfully gain Lae'zel's approval and build a meaningful connection with this formidable warrior.